NewJerseyGrocer_2017_Issue2_Final1

NJFC NEWS

ADVANCING OPPORTUNITIES HONORS NEW JERSEY FOOD COUNCIL FOR LEADERSHIP IN BUSINESS

The New Jersey Food Council was honored by Advancing Opportunities, Inc. at their annual Spring Hoedown this past weekend. The “Leadership in Business” Award was presented to the organization for their efforts to provide fulfilling employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. “The New Jersey Food Council has been a valued partner in our efforts to create a more inclusive workforce,” said Advancing Opportunities CEO Jack Mudge. “Their leadership has proven to be forward-thinking and innovative resulting in increased opportunities for employment for people with disabilities throughout the State.” “We are humbled by this recognition and we are grateful for the partnership, compassion and will of Advancing Opportunities who set a great example and are always on call to help fill the needs of the disabled," said NJFC President & CEO Linda Doherty. "Our “To stand alongside such an accomplished group of women who are making a significant impact on business in New Jersey is a humbling honor and a special moment I will cherish,” Doherty said. Doherty has been credited with developing NJFC’s Leadership Development program, growing it’s Student Scholarship and Educational Foundation, bringing more diversity onto the Board of Directors and in leadership

member commitment to the employment of the disabled is unmatched from the smile of a friendly greeter, to the wave of hello from a cart collector to the efficient customer service of a cashier. "A job in the grocery industry provides financial support, independence, hope and a future," she continued. "We are

The NJFC Team received the award during the Advancing Opportunities Annual Hoedown.

that mission is through an extensive Employment Services program aimed at creating a more inclusive workforce throughout the State. Not only does the organization facilitate job placement, but they also do job training and coaching, provide pre-placement assistance and assist with on-going support. The NJFC is an alliance of food retailers and their supplier partners united to provide vision and leadership to advance the interest of its members. Doherty also has a strong passion for community outreach focusing on food assistance programs for women, children, families, and other individuals in need. As an advocate for women’s issues and financial stability, she founded the Girl’s Investment Network (GIN), a group of women in various stages of economic health to learn about financial stability, investing opportunities, and balancing personal finances.

profoundly proud of this effort by our members to support the mission of Advancing Opportunities.” Members of the business community also recognized at the event were Humanitarian of the Year Frank Lucchesi of PSE&G and Volunteer of the Year Michael Yarrow of WithumSmith+Brown. The mission of Advancing Opportunities is to enhance the lives of all people with disabilities, and one way they achieve positions and sharing her experiences, career insights and advice as a leading female food industry executive. “Linda could not be more deserving of this recognition,” said Patrick C. Dunican, Jr., Chairman and Managing Director of Gibbons P.C., who submitted Doherty’s nomination to NJBIZ. “She has made incredible strides as a leader in the food industry and the New Jersey business community at large.”

"BEST 50 WOMEN IN BUSINESS" (continued)

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